Encouraging a Love for Reading in Children
Parents often dream of their children spending the summer holidays immersed in books, gaining knowledge that makes the return to school smooth. However, the reality is often filled with more screen time than story time, along with a trail of mess. The challenge lies in sparking a lasting love for reading among children, even those who are reluctant readers.
Kirsty Woods, a children’s book specialist at Kibworth Books in Leicester and chair of The Booksellers Association Children’s Bookselling Group, shares her insights on how to encourage reading at home during the summer months. As a parent of three primary school-aged children, she understands the balance between managing childcare, work, and maintaining a somewhat orderly home, all while caring for a new puppy.
Her first piece of advice is to breathe, keep it simple, and stay realistic. No one can do it alone, and you don’t have to. One effective way to maintain reading momentum over the summer is by seeking support from local resources. Your local library is an excellent starting point, offering Summer Reading Challenges and free events. If available, visiting your local bookshop can also be beneficial. Bookshops are filled with passionate individuals eager to help with book recommendations, activity sheets, story time sessions, and author events.
Creating a Fun Reading Environment
Keeping an open mind about what and how children read is essential. Consider different reading experiences, such as taking books on a picnic, to the beach, or a café. Building a den in the backyard can make reading more exciting. Kirsty notes that her kids often enjoy reading alongside snacks, showing that creativity can enhance the experience. You can act out stories, use silly voices, add sensory elements, or create artwork. However, if this feels overwhelming, even 10 minutes of quiet reading together can make a difference.
When it comes to choosing books, let go of preconceived notions about what counts as "proper" reading. Voice and choice matter. Listen to what your child or teenager is interested in, whether it's chapter books, graphic novels, comics, non-fiction, puzzle books, newspaper articles, or audiobooks. The focus should be on fun, relaxation, and inspiration rather than ticking off reading goals.
Encouraging Teens to Read
For teens, a different approach may be necessary. They face various pressures, including screens and social lives, but there are still ways to encourage them to read. Consider setting aside a specific time each day for family reading, either individually or as a group. Even if they’re not up for being read to, listening to someone else read can be relaxing for adults as well.
If a teen is particularly reluctant, consider using the "stealth method" suggested by YA author Tamsin Winter. Leave a book somewhere in the house and casually mention it—“Oh wow, this book is about two girls who get into trouble doing TikTok challenges”—before walking away. Keep stealth-dropping books until something resonates with them.
Modeling Reading Habits
Modeling reading habits is crucial. It's not just about showing kids you read, but also demonstrating interest in literature for children and young adults. If you're not already curious about it, ask yourself what you could do to become more engaged. If we don't show children that books matter, how can we expect them to value them?
One of the most important lessons Kirsty has learned is meeting kids where they are, even if it feels imperfect. While she wishes for calm bedtime stories, her reality is chaotic. Still, they read together every night, surrounded by books. They normalize book chats and book swapping, visit libraries and bookshops regularly, and read throughout the day. These habits are intended to continue beyond the teen years.
Embracing the Journey
Raising a reader is a lifelong journey. It's not about getting everything right or cramming everything into the school holidays. It's about building habits that will sustain them through life. These habits, if nurtured, bring joy, a love for reading, and meaningful family moments. Sometimes the process feels messy, with children choosing the same joke book repeatedly or selecting books that are too ambitious or too young. But it's okay. This is what reading looks like for them.
By embracing the journey, parents can foster a genuine love for reading that lasts a lifetime.